Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Park Yoonjoo held an ROK-U.S. vice foreign ministers’ meeting with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau in Washington, D.C. on May 20. The two sides discussed bilateral issues including the implementation of the Joint Fact Sheet (JFS), as well as regional and global developments.

During the meeting, the Vice Minister and the Deputy Secretary emphasized that the ROK-U.S. alliance serves as the linchpin of peace, security and prosperity not only on the Korean Peninsula but also in the Indo-Pacific region. Deputy Secretary Landau reaffirmed the United States’ firm commitment to the defense of the ROK and the robust and watertight ROK-U.S. combined defense posture. He also stated that the ROK is the best economic, trade and investment partner for the prosperity of the peoples of both countries, and that he would continue his efforts to support this partnership.

The Vice Minister and the Deputy Secretary shared the view that the announcement of the JFS is one of the most significant diplomatic achievements made over the past year since the inauguration of the current ROK administration, and is the most effective means for the two countries as they seek to address their shared challenges amid growing uncertainties in the global security and economy. The two sides noted that bilateral consultations on Korean investment in the United States are proceeding smoothly, and agreed to work together to ensure the success of the “kick-off meeting” expected to be held in the coming weeks.

Vice Minister Park expressed appreciation for Deputy Secretary Landau’s keen attention and commitment to addressing ROK-U.S. visa-related issues, which is essential to advancing bilateral investment cooperation. On that note, he hoped that the two countries will continue to make progress in that regard. Deputy Secretary Landau noted the significant contributions that Korean companies’ investment in the United States has made to the U.S. economy and the revitalization of its manufacturing sector, and reaffirmed that he would continue to pay close attention and provide support.

The Vice Minister and the Deputy Secretary also had in-depth discussions on global issues and developments, including the situation in the Middle East, the recent U.S.-China Summit, and supply chains for critical minerals. In particular, Vice Minister Park commended President Trump’s active leadership in addressing issues in the Middle East, and shared the view of the importance of safe and free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

The Vice Minister and the Deputy Secretary agreed to communicate with each other closely and promptly whenever various issues arise between the ROK and the United States, and to engage in high-level communication on various occasions over the next two to three months.